Government Audit Crisis

THE SITUATION

Despite having thorough policies and methodical practices. a quasi-government agency became entangled in a political issue which resulted in a government audit. 

THE TASK

We worked hand-in-glove with the organization throughout the audit process to develop and execute an effective response to uphold trust with key stakeholders.

THE WORK

• Assisted legal counsel in formulating a response to draft audit findings

• Developed internal and external response plans and messaging

• Conducted media training for key executives

• Assisted in executing proactive communication with key audiences on the eve of the audit’s release

• Proactively pitched interviews with print journalists who were writing stories from embargoed information from the auditor

• Proactively pitched interviews upon the audit’s release

• Monitored and corrected or clarified inaccurate information

THE RESULT

The organization’s response to the audit resulted in no legal or legislative action being taken. Or any disruption or loss of business. While the organization had anticipated receiving several calls and emails from upset or concerned stakeholders, the number of compliments for how the issue was managed outweighed concerns 10-to-1.